William McGee was born in King, North Carolina, in 1936. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from North Carolina State University and subsequently served in the U.S. Army. McGee spent several years in the financial sector, including a period as a stockbroker and the founding of his own securities firm. His career transitioned into public service, where he served as a Republican member of the North Carolina General Assembly.

William McGee's political identity is marked by a distinctive blend of conservative economic policies with progressive social reforms. He champions reducing corporate taxes and easing regulations for small businesses while simultaneously advocating for equitable school funding and vocational training. McGee's stance on climate change and energy policy reveals a calculated approach, balancing environmental concerns with economic imperatives. His opposition to the Affordable Care Act, coupled with support for comprehensive immigration reform, showcases a unique ideological positioning that defies traditional partisan lines.